Dwayne Johnson breaks down in tears after emotional premiere of The Smashing Machine in Venice Film Festival, watch here

Dwayne Johnson cries at The Smashing Machine premiere

Dwayne Johnson, better known to millions as “The Rock”, showed a rarely seen side of himself on Monday night — one filled with raw emotion and deep vulnerability.

The 53-year-old actor was brought to tears following the world premiere of his latest film, The Smashing Machine, at the 82nd Venice Film Festival, where the powerful drama received a thunderous 15-minute standing ovation.

As the applause rang out, Safdie — visibly emotional himself — embraced both Johnson and co-star Emily Blunt through his own tears. Blunt portrays Kerr’s ex-wife, Dawn Staples, in the film. “The Mummy” star wasn’t the only one moved by the moment. Mark Kerr, who made a special appearance at the premiere, was also seen wiping away tears as the credits rolled, visibly touched by the portrayal of his life on screen.

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Johnson had already made an impression earlier that evening on the red carpet, arriving alongside Blunt with a smile, stopping to take selfies and sign autographs for eager fans. One enthusiastic supporter even shouted Johnson’s old WWE catchphrase just before the screening began — a playful reminder of his wrestling roots.

Dwayne Johnsone arrived with Emily Blunt at the red carpet and gave us major bestie goals.

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The film, directed by Benny Safdie, tells the real-life story of Mark Kerr, a former amateur wrestling champion who transitioned into the brutal world of MMA. Johnson plays Kerr in what many are already calling a career-defining performance. The crowd’s overwhelming response sparked early Oscar buzz — and clearly meant the world to Johnson.

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But it wasn’t just the film or the emotion that had fans talking. Johnson’s noticeably slimmer physique also made headlines. Known for his larger-than-life build, the Jumanji star appeared leaner than usual — a transformation that didn’t go unnoticed on social media. Fans, ever cheeky, have begun calling him “The Pebble” in light of his trimmer frame.